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Jessie Kurasz Obituary
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42 Entries
Kisses for Mama Always
Krisitne "Shopping Boy"
April 23, 2012
Dear Mama,
Today I woke up bright and early on my own at 5am. I immediately thought of you and how you were always a morning person. I remember sleeping at your house during the week and having you always call my name, "Kristine?" I always found the funniest part of that when I responded, "Yes Mama?"-- you would say, "Are you awake?". I would sit in my room and laugh silently because usually when someone responds with 'YES Mama' -- they are awake. Gosh I love you. Well, I woke up with the hopes to go to church for you. Today is a hard day. I went to church downtown near school and prayed the rosary for you too. I know you always encouraged me to pray louder and louder -- proud that I had a strong voice. Yet when I screamed at home you would call me crazy. I miss you Mama. I miss coming to your house after school to make us dinner or lunch. The memories I cherish are plenty. You make me smile and laugh so much.
I miss you Mama. There is still this empty feeling inside of me that won't go away. Some days are much harder to manage--like yesterday and today. I remember coming to your house the Monday before God called you home and raced up to your room to bring you tea. We always had our tea and cappuccino breaks, never enough in a day. I woke you up to say hi and you immediately shot, "What time is it?" I laughed and said, "It's 10 o'clock Mama...hi to you too". You looked at me and asked, "Why you come so late?" I giggled, "I had school work to do Mama." Always filled with questions, "When are you leaving?" I told you 6:30 because I had to go to school in Aurora for my practicum. You created that pouting baby voice, "Oh Kristine, poor Kristine. It's too much. Why you come? So late. So early." I looked at you, gave you a kiss on your forehead and answered, "Mama, it's because I love you". Mama. I love spending time with you. Mamaaaa!! You have taught me to live everyday as if it were my last. Not in the materialistic sense. But in the way we treat one another. And I treated you with all my love at that moment. I hope you felt it.
So I know you are watching over me now and I found the angel you sent me. When you left, he entered. And I know you can see who I am speaking of. He understands the love one has for such a close grandmother. He listens to all the stories I share about you and relates to them all. I wish you could be here but I know you are smiling over me and saying one thing, "Kristine, Shopping Boy".
Mama, I am really bad at remembering dates. But the day Christ called you home was the 23 of March. Do you know that 2 + 3 = 5 – the number of children and the number of grandchildren? And I believe that when you were called home, you had us all in the palm of your hand. I love you Mama. I find meaning and value in the smallest things. You would always call, “Kristine, the Holy Holy”. But Mama, do you see how you taught me to love life and all its fruitfulness. I love you. And I will love you forever Mamush.
Elizabeth Kurasz
April 23, 2012
Ma,
I can't believe that today marks one month since you left me, us.
You were right when you said I would take this hard...I'm so numb from it. I keep thinking HOW CAN THIS BE.
Honest to God never in a million years did I ever think that you would have gone before me. Remember how I always said that I would be the first to go so that I could tell God my version of the story and you would always say "don't you threaten me" I can see you now trying to convince him of your version.... 'I don't know why she did bla, bla bla but Liz changed and became good in the end"
Went to an interview and was asked what 3 people you would want to have dinner with, I mentioned that you would be one of them. I always enjoyed your company and knew that you would round out the conversation, and you would have made the others feel at ease. Plus all the stories you have...it would have been an exciting evening.
Now a days when I talk about you to strangers I always end with the following "you would have really liked my Mom, she had the ability to draw people in" Most respond with "I think you are right"
Nanny, I loved and love you with all my heart and soul. You knew that I would do anything and everything for you. I know that you are on the other side watching over us, but still I would rather have you here.
Ma, I will pray for you and ask that you do the same for me. I know that you will be guiding me on the next leg of this journey.
As for lighting the candle, well I'm doing my best to keep up with the tradition.
Until we meet again,
Love always
Liz (Leska)
Cheshue Soufian
April 23, 2012
Dearest Mamma,
Today marks a very special day. April 23rd.For the past month, I have wondered how you are doing and what you are eating up there in heaven. I see all the butter youve placed in your purse. I even found an extra one in your old purse! Gosh, I love you!
Every day this month I received alerts from this online guest book and smiled with all the beautiful words friends and family shared about you. All the times you asked me, "Am I really a bad person toothpick?" I always answered,"Of course not Mamma, not even close!" Look at all the inspiration you gave others.
One month ago, I held your hand in your room for the last time. I gripped it so tightly, wrapped your fingers around mine and simply prayed that as you joined the angels in heavens above, you would always watch down and continue to guide our family. I will never stop loving you, for you will always be my Mamma and I simply ask that you never leave my side.
Not a day passes where I continue to think of all the memories we shared - trips together, you lying on the beach chair, me getting you the diet cokes WITH NO ICE! Dominican last Christmas, when you eyed everyone elses body weight, yet didnt want to go for any walks after dinner! I loved hanging out with you - scooters at Walmart will never be the same. I even remember the glow of your face when the lady at walmart asked if you were my mom, I proudly told her, "Yup, shes my Mamma, and she looks amazing for eighty one!" You smiled and fixed your hair. What about the trips to Swiss Chalet and you eyeing everything on my plate patiently awaiting to see if I was going to eat everything. (I havent left a single thing on my plate for the past month!) Each morning, I now drive to work and look at the passenger seat smiling as I remember all the times I walked you down those stairs, buckled you in the car and laughed as you sat in the "WB" (Mamma its a BMW - ohh S. up toothpick!). Mamma, you are one of a kind woman. A rare gem that I am deeply blessed with. For the past month, I have reminded myself that I want to continue to live in your footsteps. The way you gripped life, I too strive for that passion.
Mauro calls me "Babcia JR" for a reason - im just like you, and I LOVE IT! Only you understand since I was the premature baby who couldnt swallow, right?! :)
One month ago, I experienced an awakening, you became an angel. I now look to the beautiful sky to hear your voice, see your smile, and feel your presence. In complete stillness, I feel your arms around me just the same way you held me in that rocking chair of yours.
I love you Mamma... and always will.
May you be at complete peace now.
May God give you lifes greatest happiness in your eternal life.
Mamma, you will forever be sadly missed, always loved, yet never ever forgotten.
You will always be my Mamma, and I will always be your toothpick.
I love you Mamma...
Domenic Durante
April 22, 2012
From all the stories I have heard from Kristine and the pictures I have seen, I believe that this woman was a really special person. She touched the lives of many. My condolences to all of her friends and family. She will remain in my prayers.
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April 22, 2012
Moja Matka,I grieved with a heavy heart the night God called you.Your earthly journey brought 5 children into the world,nurturing a spirit of goodwill and a sense of right and wrong.Ironies and no guarantees enabled you to share most things you had from the little you received to attain more than one hopes for.5 grand children enjoyed your wisdom and experience growing up.At your calling many friends lamented at the loss of your friendship.Memories ,photographs,cell phone clips are left as reminders.Tears fell ,first time I moved into apartment of mine own realizing how empty and different without you. My heart eased as your spirit , prayers and guidance enabled my journey. The adventure continues without my angel on earth.Now my angel matka in heaven is resting in eternal peace praying for our souls and we here praying for her waiting.May God bless us always. Kochana Matka,Krystian
Mauro Di Benedetto
April 20, 2012
Dear Babcia,
Since God has made you one of his angels, I won't be able to tell you in person, so I wanted to take this chance to write a few words to you. From the bottom of my heart, it was an absolute pleasure talking and getting to know you over this past year. I truly enjoyed sitting with you for hours and listening to your wonderful stories. Babcia's famous quote to me was "You're gonna tell me about Italians! I go to the Columbus Centre” Another classic line was when I would hear her scream “toothpick!!!” LOL … Babcia, it was a breath of fresh air to see what a wonderful person you were, and what an inspiring impact you had on the rest of the family.
As you look down upon us from Heaven, may your spirit still remain in each of us.
Babcia, you will be sadly missed, always loved, and never forgotten.
Love Always,
Mauro – (Mowry)
John Soufian
April 19, 2012
Well S. Mama you have surrounded yourself with many other who are listening to you and watching us at the same time. I drove you to many churches or other functions and every time you reached into your big bag and got your little purse just to give me gas money. I remember one Monday, it was 11:30 pm and I picked you up from church, it was “Hello” at first than you started to talk and boy you could talk about anything and everything at any time. I went through a red light than, with a smirk you said “hey that was a red light” and before I could reply I went through the 2nd red light. Yes I didn't see the green light that night but when you were home, you reached into that big bag that you always carried and got your little purse and you gave me five dollars and said this is for your gas. No more gas money for me, but I know you and the others are watching us while you continue to talk about anything and everything
Our Nanny... one of my favorite pictures
April 16, 2012
Danielle (Dolka) Soufian
April 16, 2012
Nanny... you are such an awesome and amazing person adored by so many including me. I will cherish our memories forever in my heart, and there are many, many wonderful memories to remember. I always admire your perseverance but more importantly your zest for life and living. You never gave up and never gave in Nanny, never, such incredible strength from such a short sweet and strong woman.
There are no words to describe how much I love you or how much I miss you. I feel emptiness without you here but you taught me to believe, and I will believe you are with us in spirit. How honored I am to be your daughter, and to have you as a special Guardian Angel to watch over us, keep us safe and protect us. You'll forever be my Nanny and I'll forever be your Dolka; and Nanny, that's no speculation, that's a fact.
Deborah Jones
April 16, 2012
It's never easy
It's never easy for those that are left behind but when you lose someone so unexpectedly. We all feel the shock.
May help to know how many people share your sorrow and stand with you in your time of need.
Wishing you the gifts of hope and comfort at this difficult time.
April 16, 2012
We will all miss her at Darlington park.it just wont be the same thanks Danielle for calling us. She was a good women .
Enjoying life
April 14, 2012
April 14, 2012
Dominican, Dec. 2011
April 14, 2012
Patricia Cascone
April 14, 2012
I wish to express my deepest and sincere condolences to all of Jessie kurasz family members. I am always thankful to Cheshue, one of the kindest people I have ever met and her family for blessing me by giving me the privilege of knowing this extraordinary and beautiful woman. I loved listening to her talk, she had so much to say and most of all I loved the day I got to visit her when she was camping. Me city girl, will never camp all of a sudden got this urge to do as "nonna " was living her life. I know how greatly she will be missed but I also know her spirit will forever continue on in the hearts of those who love her.
Katie Soufian
April 14, 2012
Grandma, I never imagined what it would be like to not have you around, this is so hard to digest. The world seems very quiet without the sound of your voice.
I would do anything to see you again. I could always count on your honesty, like all the times you said, "Katie, you are my most dumb, but you are the prettiest." I laughed so hard I almost cried when you would use your cane as a defence mechanism when someone was in trouble. Watching you comb your ever-so-perfect hair always made me smile.
You brought life to everything you touched. It would be impossible to forget you, or any of the happy memories I am left with.
I love you way more than you ever thought possible.
Whino, Kakats.
April 14, 2012
I loved her smile...I loved her long talks...I loved her...I loved that she loved me...
Lillian
Melissa Vinkovic
April 11, 2012
Jesse, I still have a hard time believing that you are no longer with us,but always in spirit. I remember you as the only woman that would take someone else's child (me) and treat them as your own. The summers we spent together are memories that I still think about. The honor and privilege it was to have you in my home and meeting my husband and kids, because now they had a face to go with the stories.You were an amazing woman with a great sense of humor,a memory that would not forget anything and most of all the gift of gab..:)You were always up for a good conversation. Now you have all those angels to share your stories and wisdom with too. May you rest in peace knowing all the lives you have touched.God Bless you Jesse.
Your friend always.
Tammy Profyt
April 11, 2012
I will always remember the countless talk's even if we never saw each other in 20 years we could always pick up where we left off. All the get together's growing up, How the first time she met my husband, made him feel like he was part of the family, she was always about family and it showed. She loved her kids dearly and always spoke highly about each one. A very strong women indeed. Provided a life for her 5 kids and never complained one bit doin it. She lived her life to the fullest, and always had fun doing it. I remember her personality with her dry sense of humor, that I loved...and she always made me laugh. She had a fun loving character about her. Jessie will always have a special place in my heart, we will miss her dearly.
Angela Reale
April 10, 2012
Jessie was a woman with an abundance of wisdom, joy, jokes, and personality. She shared her thrill for living life to its fullest with everyone. The first time I met Jessie she lived up to the wonderful stories I had heard and proved to be an honest woman. Jessie will always have a special place in the hearts of the people she encountered. She was one of a kind and will live on in her special way with each of us.
With love,
Angela
Rose Pace
April 10, 2012
The first time I met Jessie I was moved by her strong character and presence, a gift she passed on to all her children. A woman who raised five children on her own in a new country with a new language, Jessie was and is a role model! My favourite memory of Jessie was walking into her home one day and seeing the bible and newspapers spread out all around her - and then having a great converation about what was going on in the world and how people need to bring God back into their lives! Jessie's smile and personality, her strong faith and courage will remain alive in the memories of each of us who met her!
April 10, 2012
Elizabeth Kurasz
April 9, 2012
Mom,
I never told you this but every time I was in your presence it was as if I was that 5 year old child looking up at you and listening to what you had to say because you were so smart. Here I am almost 48 and still saw you in the same way but somehow this feeling always made me so happy.
Love always
Your Daughter
Liz (Leska)
Elizabeth Kurasz
April 9, 2012
Mom,
I never got the chance to say...thanks for being my Mom. You did a good job at raising your kids all by yourself.
We just got back on track with our relationship and now it's over. I will miss our conversations and your company.
As I always said you were one of the smartest people I ever met. Your sense of wisdom and compassion for others was incredible.
My hope is that you will watch over me, until we see each other again.
Love always,
Liz
Sandra Figliomeni
April 3, 2012
To Jessie's family:
My sincerest condolences for the loss of a wonderful and loving mother, grandmother and friend. In the short time I knew Jessie, I was touched by her wisdom, her appreciation of life and love for her family. I will never forget our Buffalo shopping adventure with Kristine and Cheshue. She was a wonderful role model to us all - she will be missed but her spirit never forgot.
Gabriella & Mark Bittner
April 2, 2012
Dear Liz and Family,
We are shocked and saddened to hear about your mother's sudden passing.
I first met Jessie at one of Father Michael's Bible Study get-togethers. I remember that she was always an active participant, sharing her experiences and her love for Jesus.
I always admired her courage and determination in raising her family. Perhaps her greatest legacy will be in the wonderful children she raised and in the beautiful grandchildren she left behind. She was very proud of all of you.
Liz, I know your heart is hurting now and I wish I was there to comfort you. I hope you know that it's ok to mourn. Jesus said: “Blessed are they that mourn for they shall be comforted.” So take the time you need to mourn and know that Jesus is with you always. He will comfort you and replace the sadness in your heart with happy memories that you created together.
Our thoughts and prayers are with you all.
Angelina Yagudayev
April 1, 2012
Jessie was dear to my heart, she took me into her home and raised me like one of her own grand daughters. Jessie was a very kind women and would always make everyone laugh. I have great memories of her that I will cherish forever. Jessie I love you like my grand mother and I will forever miss you. love always Angelina
Leslie
March 30, 2012
Dear Liz,
I have just returned from Cuba to your very sad email. My heart goes out to you. You have always spoken highly of your mother and I know you had a great deal of love and respect for her.
All the best to you and your family during this difficult time. I hope that you find comfort in your family and your faith.
Please let me know if I can do anything to support you.
With sympathy,
Leslie
Maria Agovino
March 30, 2012
My condolences to the Kurasz family.
I remember Jessie always sitting at the back of St. Charles pews (often with Liz) for noon Mass. She always had a great smile and the times we spoke she loved talking about her grandchildren and family. I can only imagine how happy she must be now to be face to face with Jesus !You'll be missed. Please pray for us Jessie!
Daughters of St. Paul
March 30, 2012
With deepest sympathy to the Kurasz Family from the Daughters of St. Paul. I came to know Jesse when she brought Liz (or Liz, you brought your mom!) to our Faith & Film Nights. A strong woman of great faith... Your mom and your whole family continue to be in the sisters' prayers.
svetlana Yagudayev
March 30, 2012
Jessie,my dearest friend,miss you very much,remembering good times we spend together,long talks(you talking i am listening),you was always worry about me,it was just last month you was sitting next to me at my birthday(thank god for that),you was like a mother to me and only grandmother to my children.I will always cherish memories of you for the rest of my life.Love you always your
Svetlana
Katie and Grandma
March 29, 2012
Mamma and 'toothpick"
March 29, 2012
Swiss Chalet - Mamma's favorite place!
March 29, 2012
Maria Chiovitti
March 28, 2012
My deepest sympathy Janine, my heart is with you - although I did not know your mother, she raised a fine daughter so as the saying goes "like mother like daughter" - my prayers are with you Janine.
Ko-Ko
March 28, 2012
Love forever
Number One Daughter
Yolanda Castro
March 27, 2012
My condolences to your family.
My Mama, Mamush, Nanny
Kristine Minue Adollahi Soufian "Gypsy'", "Arab" & "Strong One"
March 26, 2012
Mama, you are my shining star. And now you are also my Guardian Angel. I remember living with you and always being called to help you... called to give... just drawn to you in every way. 50 teas a day. Cappuccino breaks always. Maury Show. Judge Judy. I even remember your wake-up calls, "Kristine?" I would call back, "Yes Mama". "Are you awake?" Smiling, I would always reply "Yes, I'm awake." But in my head it was more like, 'Gosh, ''Yes Mama'' implies that I am awake. duhh'. I never got sick of you. Maybe a bit frustrated but I continued.... continued to feel God calling me to act to live in your light. In church you always jabbed my leg encouraging me or more like forcing me to "pray louder Kristine". She always wanted people to hear me sing and pray loud. And she knew I loved to pray, "Kristine Kristine...so religious but nothing". I accepted the criticism because I believed it was said with good intentions.
So when Auntie Coco called me the day after God called you home, she told me I would have to sing. She explained that she would love it, but above all, you would love it. So here are the lyrics for the song I wrote to you the day after God called you into heaven.
In Light Together With You
Written By Kristine Soufian
Verse 1 – Dedicated to those in need of strength and the reminder that Christ shines in us every moment of every day.
Everybody has a dream to dream.
Everybody has a goal to achieve and that point to reach.
You can succeed in anything.
All you have to do is believe.
All you have to do is believe.
Chorus – Dedicated to everyone who were in some way or another gifted with the presence of Jessie Kurasz.
In light, in Christ,
We are one and the same.
In light, in Christ.
We, the light and the flame.
In light, in Christ
We are blessed you came.
Blessed you came.
Verse 2 – Dedicated to all of God's children. This makes us united in the image of Christ.
We each have a heart full of gold.
The way you chose to show is in your hands.
We each have a mem'ry to hold.
All you have to do is believe.
All you have to do is believe.
Chorus
Break – Dedicated to Mama, Mamush, Mah, Jessie, Nanny, Nanuke, Grandma.
Every heart you touched was God working through you.
Shined all the light you ever had.
We take what you gave, what you taught ? learn to apply
Cause you
Exemplified love as simply the greatest gift of all
Ending - Chorus x2
When you sing, you pray twice.
I can go on and on Mama. But I will cherish all the memories with you. And you will live forever in my heart with the love I have for you. I love you and miss you immensely. You are phenomenal - yes Mama, it means very very wonderful, like ahhh-sam (the way you pronounce awesome).
Joan Graham
March 25, 2012
To Jessie's family...
Deepest condolences. Jessie will be missed very much by her neighbours.
Cheshue Soufian
March 25, 2012
To my Mamma,
Words will never express all that you mean to me. I will love you for the rest of my life. You raised me. You taught me the values that I strongly hold today. You modelled to me the strength and perseverance that guides success. Mamma, I was driven by you. I alwayed wanted to make you proud. You shaped me, you loved me, and you raised me to become the woman I am today.
I know that God and you will continue to watch over our family and I will always look to you as my 2nd mother, my role model, my very own mamma. Please dont ever leave me and I will always feel your presence and spirit near.
Rest In Peace Mamma.
Love Always and Forever,
"Toothpick" - Cheshue
Cheryl Campbell
March 24, 2012
With my deepest Sympathy to the Kurasz Family on behalf of my family. Growing up would not have been the same without your Mother and her children. You and your Mother are in my prayers.
With fond memories,
March 24, 2012
To Jessie's Family..........Our condolences to all of you. Jessie was a special person, who left a great impression on us. We will always remember her cooked Polish Kalbassa at our pot-luck suppers. She was a very generous and bubbly person, we will miss her.
God bless....Noreen and Angelo Alberico
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